EXCLUSIVE: Hurkacz Reflects on Second-Round Loss: “I Didn’t Step Up”
In a stunning upset at the Australian Open, Hubert Hurkacz suffered a second-round defeat against American player Ethan Quinn. This loss marked Hurkacz’s sixth early exit in eight Australian Open appearances.
Hurkacz’s Disappointing Early Exit
Hurkacz, currently ranked 55th in the world, faced Quinn after seeking advice from his compatriot Kamil Majchrzak the day before the match. However, he struggled to find his rhythm, leading to a straight-sets defeat.
Key Match Highlights
- Date: January 2027
- Opponent: Ethan Quinn
- Match Outcome: Hurkacz lost in straight sets
- Second Round Exit: Sixth in eight Australian Open attempts
This match was crucial for Hurkacz, who had made a notable return to the court after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery in late 2025. January marked his seventh official match following a six-month absence from competitive tennis.
Match Performance Insights
The match saw intense moments, particularly in the second set tiebreak, where Hurkacz narrowly missed an aggressive shot that could have changed the momentum. After this setback, he seemed to lose his focus, ultimately culminating in a rapid conclusion to the match, with Quinn winning the third set in just 19 minutes.
“It’s disappointing. It was a big point, an important point,” Hurkacz remarked post-match, highlighting the critical nature of the tiebreak. He acknowledged the need for adjustments in the third set but felt his performance fell short.
Physical Condition and Public Reaction
Despite criticism regarding his effort during the final set, Hurkacz claimed he felt physically good throughout the tournament. He noted, “I couldn’t practice much on a serve issue for the Australian Open but I was nevertheless feeling good today.” He also recognized the challenges he faced during the matches in Melbourne.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on his recent performances, Hurkacz remains optimistic about his future. “There were definitely some very great and positive moments,” he stated. He plans to return stronger, focusing on the experiences gained in the first three weeks back on the court.
Hurkacz concluded by expressing his gratitude for the support from fans, stating, “I’m just super happy to be competing again, and seeing the amazing fans really means a lot to me.” As he looks ahead, he is determined to make a more robust comeback in future tournaments.
